Praying for Boldness Through Faith

Mark Mielbrecht, a teaching pastor at Northshore and part of Global Service Associates, introduces a sermon during Lent, reflecting on common traditions like giving things up. He humorously notes that some people give up coffee, while others suggest he give up complaining. However, he emphasizes that Christianity is more than behavior modification. Instead, it's about experiencing God's power and grace, as seen in the book of Acts. He recounts the story of a lame beggar healed by Peter and John in Jesus' name, which led to their imprisonment by the religious leaders. Despite threats, Peter boldly declares that Jesus, whom they crucified and God raised, is the source of this miracle. After being released, the disciples pray for continued boldness to proclaim God's word, and they are filled with the Holy Spirit. Mark challenges the congregation to consider what would happen if they were so captivated by God's love and power that their faith visibly drew others to Christ. He encourages them to use God's Word as a healing force rather than a weapon and to embrace boldness in their faith for the sake of justice and righteousness.